The socio-scientific reasoning model is described. This model is the incorporation of the hypothetico-deductive mode of problem solving with the social and moral or ethical concerns of decision making. It has served as a guide in the development of a series of educational materials to help students advance to higher levels of thinking and reasoning capabilities. Application of the socio-scientific reasoning model centers on identifying those learning experiences important for assisting students to become more effective and capable decision makers and problem solvers in a highly scientific and technological world. The model should also prove to be useful in helping curriculum developers determine the types and complexity of activities appropriate for students at differing grade levels, with differing abilities, and with differing learning needs and requirements. (Author/BB)